On Friday, December 6, 2024, the Office of the Ombudsman held a pivotal public lecture at the Kigali campus of East African University Rwanda. The event brought together students and lecturers in an engaging dialogue on combating corruption and promoting integrity, underscoring the importance of youth involvement in creating a transparent society.
The lecture aimed to equip students with knowledge about corruption, its far-reaching implications, and the collective responsibility of individuals to combat it. Birasa Fiscal Jacques, the Director of Special Investigation on Corruption Unit at the Office of Ombudsman emphasized the event’s strategic goal: educating students about the nature of corruption, encouraging ethical behavior, and fostering a culture of integrity among young people.
Speaking to attendees, the Director invoked a powerful Rwandan saying, “Nk’uko umuntu asaza si ko n’ibyaha bisaza” loosely translated as “As people age, crimes do not age.” This metaphor served as a reminder of the timeless nature of accountability, stressing that corruption must be addressed consistently and without leniency.
“Justice must be pursued thoroughly and impartially,” the officer asserted, emphasizing the importance of treating all acts of corruption with seriousness, regardless of when they occur.
Umwiza Mugunga Jesca, the university’s Assistant Guild President, shared her perspective on the significance of the lecture: “This session has been eye-opening. It helps us recognize the injustices and corruption in our surroundings and gives us tools to address them effectively.”
Fellow student Murwanashyaka Augustin expressed a desire for deeper understanding: “I had limited knowledge about the activities of the Ombudsman’s office and the dynamics of corruption. I hope this lecture provides valuable insights and practical knowledge to help tackle these issues.”
The discussion underscored the critical role of young people in combating corruption. By providing clear insights into corrupt practices and their consequences, the lecture emphasized the need for a united effort to build a culture of transparency and accountability.
Initiatives like this lecture serve as a cornerstone for empowering future leaders to act as agents of change. By fostering awareness, promoting ethical behavior, and encouraging active citizenship, the Office of the Ombudsman is contributing to the vision of a more just and transparent society.
